The writer presents valid reasoning by highlighting the potential benefits of the proposed ban on certain single-use plastics, such as reducing litter, lowering carbon pollution, and creating jobs. By citing Canadian officials who estimate that the ban could eliminate nearly 2 million tons of carbon emissions and create 42,000 jobs, the article underscores the economic and environmental rationale behind the policy. Additionally, the inclusion of expert opinions, like that of environmental scientist Max Liboiron, adds credibility to the argument while acknowledging the limitations of the proposed measures regarding the long-term persistence and impact of plastics in the environment. This balanced approach effectively supports the overall argument for the need to address plastic pollution.
From Vancouver to Halifax, plastic plates, plastic bags and plastic straws may be on their way out. But a possible country-wide prohibition on certain single-use plastic products may not address the spread of the most insidious plastic litter, some scientists say.
According to Canadian officials, the potential bans — which could go into effect as early as 2021 — would not only curb litter but also cut nearly 2 million tons of carbon pollution. They claim the policy would also stimulate the economy by creating 42,000 jobs.
“I am, like a lot of scientists, excited, with a lot of caveats,” said Max Liboiron, an environmental scientist at Memorial University in Newfoundland.
Plastics can persist for hundreds, if not thousands of years in the environment. Plastic litter can entangle and kill wildlife, or break down into tiny particles — microplastics — that collect and leach out heavy metals or harmful chemicals. While recycling can repurpose plastic materials into other products, fewer than 10 percent of plastics are actually recycled. The bulk of recyclable plastic is currently in limbo, as countries in Asia have shut their doors to shipments of other nations’ trash.
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Question
Use the article to answer the question.
In 3–5 sentences, explain how the writer uses valid reasoning to develop an overall argument.
3 answers
The writer uses solid reasoning by discussing the potential benefits of banning certain single-use plastics, such as reducing litter, cutting carbon emissions, and creating jobs. Canadian officials suggest that the ban could eliminate nearly 2 million tons of carbon pollution and generate 42,000 jobs, which supports the environmental and economic reasons for the policy. Additionally, the article includes insights from environmental scientist Max Liboiron, who adds credibility while pointing out that the ban may not fully solve the issue of persistent plastic waste. This balanced perspective strengthens the overall argument for addressing plastic pollution.